Quick Overview
- 1#1: NetBox - Open-source IPAM and DCIM platform for modeling and documenting network infrastructure, devices, cables, and IP allocations.
- 2#2: SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper - Automatically discovers network topology and generates customizable diagrams for comprehensive network documentation.
- 3#3: Device42 - Agentless discovery and dependency mapping tool that creates detailed visualizations and documentation of IT infrastructure including networks.
- 4#4: Auvik - Cloud-based network monitoring and management platform with automated mapping and documentation of network devices and configurations.
- 5#5: Infoblox - Enterprise DDI solution providing IPAM, DNS, DHCP with integrated network documentation and visualization capabilities.
- 6#6: BlueCat Address Manager - Scalable IPAM platform for managing and documenting IP spaces, DNS, DHCP, and network infrastructure across enterprises.
- 7#7: Domotz - Remote network monitoring tool that auto-discovers devices and generates interactive maps for network documentation.
- 8#8: ManageEngine OpUtils - IP address management and switch port mapping tool for tracking and documenting network inventory and usage.
- 9#9: phpIPAM - Open-source IP address management software with subnet scanning, visualization, and network documentation features.
- 10#10: PRTG Network Monitor - Network monitoring solution with auto-discovery, interactive maps, and reporting for documenting network performance and layout.
Tools were selected based on technical excellence (including auto-discovery, dependency mapping, and visualization), usability for both small and large environments, reliability in capturing infrastructure details, and value-driven capabilities that align with modern IT needs.
Comparison Table
Effective network documentation is critical for maintaining organized IT infrastructure and streamlining operations. This comparison table features popular tools like NetBox, SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper, Device42, Auvik, Infoblox, and more, outlining key capabilities, use cases, and differences to help readers identify the best fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NetBox Open-source IPAM and DCIM platform for modeling and documenting network infrastructure, devices, cables, and IP allocations. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 2 | SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper Automatically discovers network topology and generates customizable diagrams for comprehensive network documentation. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 3 | Device42 Agentless discovery and dependency mapping tool that creates detailed visualizations and documentation of IT infrastructure including networks. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Auvik Cloud-based network monitoring and management platform with automated mapping and documentation of network devices and configurations. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Infoblox Enterprise DDI solution providing IPAM, DNS, DHCP with integrated network documentation and visualization capabilities. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 6 | BlueCat Address Manager Scalable IPAM platform for managing and documenting IP spaces, DNS, DHCP, and network infrastructure across enterprises. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | Domotz Remote network monitoring tool that auto-discovers devices and generates interactive maps for network documentation. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | ManageEngine OpUtils IP address management and switch port mapping tool for tracking and documenting network inventory and usage. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 9 | phpIPAM Open-source IP address management software with subnet scanning, visualization, and network documentation features. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.0/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 10 | PRTG Network Monitor Network monitoring solution with auto-discovery, interactive maps, and reporting for documenting network performance and layout. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.1/10 |
Open-source IPAM and DCIM platform for modeling and documenting network infrastructure, devices, cables, and IP allocations.
Automatically discovers network topology and generates customizable diagrams for comprehensive network documentation.
Agentless discovery and dependency mapping tool that creates detailed visualizations and documentation of IT infrastructure including networks.
Cloud-based network monitoring and management platform with automated mapping and documentation of network devices and configurations.
Enterprise DDI solution providing IPAM, DNS, DHCP with integrated network documentation and visualization capabilities.
Scalable IPAM platform for managing and documenting IP spaces, DNS, DHCP, and network infrastructure across enterprises.
Remote network monitoring tool that auto-discovers devices and generates interactive maps for network documentation.
IP address management and switch port mapping tool for tracking and documenting network inventory and usage.
Open-source IP address management software with subnet scanning, visualization, and network documentation features.
Network monitoring solution with auto-discovery, interactive maps, and reporting for documenting network performance and layout.
NetBox
specializedOpen-source IPAM and DCIM platform for modeling and documenting network infrastructure, devices, cables, and IP allocations.
Plugin architecture that allows infinite extensibility, turning NetBox into a customizable hub for any network documentation need
NetBox is an open-source IP address management (IPAM) and data center infrastructure management (DCIM) tool designed for documenting and modeling network infrastructure. It provides detailed tracking of devices, racks, cables, IP addresses, VLANs, circuits, and more through a flexible, web-based interface with a powerful REST API. Widely adopted in enterprise environments, it serves as a source-of-truth for network automation and documentation workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive IPAM and DCIM modeling with support for custom fields and relationships
- Extensive plugin ecosystem for customization and integrations
- Robust REST API and webhooks enabling seamless automation with tools like Ansible and Nautobot
Cons
- Self-hosted deployment requires DevOps expertise for scaling and maintenance
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations and custom scripting
- Lacks built-in real-time monitoring or change management out-of-the-box
Best For
Network engineering teams in mid-to-large enterprises managing complex data centers and hybrid cloud environments who need a scalable, open-source source-of-truth for infrastructure documentation.
Pricing
Open-source core is free and self-hosted; NetBox Cloud SaaS starts at $150/month (Starter plan), with enterprise support and premium features available via NetBox Labs.
SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper
enterpriseAutomatically discovers network topology and generates customizable diagrams for comprehensive network documentation.
Advanced automated discovery engine combining multiple protocols for comprehensive, dependency-aware topology mapping
SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper (NTM) is a specialized network documentation tool that automatically discovers devices and connections across physical, virtual, and hybrid environments using protocols like SNMP, ICMP, CDP, and LLDP. It generates interactive, customizable topology maps and diagrams that can be exported to formats such as Visio, PDF, and PNG for easy sharing and integration into documentation workflows. Ideal for maintaining up-to-date network visuals, it supports on-demand and scheduled scans to reflect changes in infrastructure.
Pros
- Automated multi-protocol discovery for accurate, real-time topology mapping
- Extensive export options including Visio and PDF for seamless documentation
- Customizable maps with support for virtualization and cloud elements
Cons
- Resource-intensive scans on very large networks
- Dated user interface compared to modern competitors
- Higher upfront cost may deter small teams
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex networks needing automated, visual documentation without manual diagramming.
Pricing
Perpetual license starting at ~$1,495 for standard edition, plus ~20% annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
Device42
enterpriseAgentless discovery and dependency mapping tool that creates detailed visualizations and documentation of IT infrastructure including networks.
Patented agentless Auto-Discovery engine that accurately maps dependencies and configurations across diverse IT ecosystems in hours.
Device42 is a robust IT infrastructure management platform specializing in automatic discovery, documentation, and mapping of networks, devices, applications, and dependencies across data centers and hybrid environments. It serves as a centralized CMDB with IPAM, DCIM, and powerful visualization tools to maintain accurate network documentation without manual intervention. The software excels in agentless discovery of multi-vendor hardware and software, generating dynamic diagrams and reports for compliance and planning.
Pros
- Comprehensive agentless auto-discovery across networks and apps
- Dynamic network topology mapping and interactive diagrams
- Integrated IPAM, CMDB, and dependency mapping for holistic documentation
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and advanced features
- Pricing scales quickly for large environments
- UI feels dated in some areas despite functional depth
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex, multi-site networks needing automated, always-current infrastructure documentation.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at ~$10,000/year for small deployments, scaling per device/feature set (typically $20-50/device/month).
Auvik
enterpriseCloud-based network monitoring and management platform with automated mapping and documentation of network devices and configurations.
Real-time, interactive network topology maps that auto-update with device changes and dependencies
Auvik is a cloud-based network monitoring and management platform that automatically discovers devices, generates real-time topology maps, and maintains detailed inventories for comprehensive network documentation. It tracks configuration changes, backs up device configs, and provides visual diagrams that update dynamically without manual intervention. This makes it particularly valuable for IT teams seeking automated visibility into complex networks.
Pros
- Automatic network discovery and real-time topology mapping
- Detailed device inventories with configuration backups and change tracking
- Intuitive cloud dashboard for quick setup and ongoing visualization
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with the number of billable devices, potentially costly for large networks
- Less focused on advanced diagramming customization compared to pure documentation tools
- Requires internet connectivity for full functionality as a SaaS solution
Best For
Mid-sized businesses, MSPs, and IT teams needing automated, always-current network maps and documentation without manual diagramming efforts.
Pricing
Tiered SaaS plans (Essentials, Performance, Capacity) billed per billable device, starting around $15/device/month with minimums from $135/month annually.
Infoblox
enterpriseEnterprise DDI solution providing IPAM, DNS, DHCP with integrated network documentation and visualization capabilities.
Grid Master for centralized, automated network discovery and IP space visualization
Infoblox provides enterprise-grade DDI (DNS, DHCP, IPAM) solutions through its NIOS platform, focusing on automated IP address management and network services. For network documentation, it offers discovery tools that map IP allocations, host records, subnets, and dependencies, generating reports and visualizations for IP space utilization. While strong in IP inventory and automation, it lacks comprehensive topology diagramming or configuration archiving typical of dedicated documentation tools.
Pros
- Automated IP discovery and mapping reduces manual documentation efforts
- Scalable for large, complex hybrid networks with real-time updates
- Integrates with ITSM/CMDB tools for extended documentation workflows
Cons
- Limited native diagramming or visual topology mapping
- Complex setup and steep learning curve for non-DDI admins
- High cost not justified for small networks or basic documentation needs
Best For
Large enterprises requiring automated IPAM-focused network inventory and documentation alongside DDI management.
Pricing
Subscription-based enterprise pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually depending on network scale and features.
BlueCat Address Manager
enterpriseScalable IPAM platform for managing and documenting IP spaces, DNS, DHCP, and network infrastructure across enterprises.
Integrated DNS/DHCP/IPAM with dynamic Blueprint deployments for automated, visual network modeling
BlueCat Address Manager (BAM) is an enterprise-grade IP Address Management (IPAM) solution that centralizes DNS, DHCP, and IPAM (DDI) functions to provide detailed network documentation. It enables tracking of IP assignments, subnets, VLANs, and device inventories with visualization tools and reporting. BAM also supports automation workflows for provisioning and compliance auditing, making it suitable for complex, large-scale networks.
Pros
- Powerful DDI integration for comprehensive IP tracking and documentation
- Advanced automation and workflow capabilities reduce manual errors
- Scalable for large enterprises with robust reporting and analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High cost makes it less accessible for SMBs
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern tools
Best For
Large enterprises with complex networks requiring integrated DDI management and detailed IP documentation.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually depending on network size and features.
Domotz
specializedRemote network monitoring tool that auto-discovers devices and generates interactive maps for network documentation.
Remote Network Toolkit for instant device access and troubleshooting from anywhere
Domotz is a cloud-based remote monitoring and management platform that excels in automatic network discovery, real-time topology mapping, and device inventory documentation. It provides visual network diagrams, asset tracking, and configuration backups to maintain up-to-date network records without manual effort. Additionally, it includes alerting, performance metrics, and remote access tools tailored for distributed IT environments.
Pros
- Automatic device discovery and interactive network mapping
- Agentless setup with remote access toolbox
- Mobile app and real-time alerts for quick response
Cons
- Pricing scales with number of agents, costly for large networks
- Limited advanced customization in documentation reports
- Requires internet connectivity for full functionality
Best For
MSPs and IT teams managing multiple remote networks who need automated discovery and visual documentation.
Pricing
Free for 1 agent; Pro at $35/month + $15/additional agent (billed annually); Enterprise custom.
ManageEngine OpUtils
enterpriseIP address management and switch port mapping tool for tracking and documenting network inventory and usage.
Advanced Switch Port Mapper that discovers and visualizes switch-to-device connections with MAC, VLAN, and port details
ManageEngine OpUtils is a network management suite focused on IP address management (IPAM), switch port mapping, and basic network diagnostics. It enables administrators to discover, track, and document IP addresses, DHCP scopes, hostnames, and switch port connections across LANs. The tool provides visual maps and reports for maintaining accurate network inventory, making it suitable for documenting core network elements without needing extensive topology diagramming.
Pros
- Robust IPAM for tracking IPs, subnets, and DNS/DHCP
- Advanced Switch Port Mapper for detailed port-to-device mapping
- Free edition available for small networks with essential documentation tools
Cons
- Limited native diagramming or auto-topology generation
- Less emphasis on configuration backups or full CMDB features
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Small to medium-sized IT teams needing straightforward IP and switch port documentation in on-premises environments.
Pricing
Free edition for up to 25 monitors; Professional edition starts at $395 for 50 monitors, with pricing scaling by node count.
phpIPAM
specializedOpen-source IP address management software with subnet scanning, visualization, and network documentation features.
Interactive subnet tree visualization for hierarchical network management and quick IP space navigation
phpIPAM is an open-source, web-based IP address management (IPAM) tool designed for tracking and documenting IP networks. It provides comprehensive features for subnet management, IP allocation, VLAN tracking, device inventory, and rack diagrams, enabling network admins to maintain detailed network documentation. The platform supports automation like DHCP/DNS integration and device discovery, making it suitable for visualizing and organizing complex IP infrastructures.
Pros
- Fully open-source and free with no licensing costs
- Powerful subnet visualization and IP allocation tools
- Highly extensible with custom fields, permissions, and API support
Cons
- Steep setup requiring PHP/MySQL server configuration
- Dated user interface lacking modern polish
- Community-driven support with limited enterprise-level assistance
Best For
Cost-conscious network administrators in small to medium-sized organizations seeking robust, self-hosted IPAM for network documentation.
Pricing
Free open-source software; optional paid professional support and hosting services available.
PRTG Network Monitor
enterpriseNetwork monitoring solution with auto-discovery, interactive maps, and reporting for documenting network performance and layout.
Sensor-based auto-discovery that automatically generates and updates interactive network maps as living documentation.
PRTG Network Monitor is a powerful IT infrastructure monitoring tool from Paessler that tracks network devices, servers, bandwidth, and applications using over 250 sensor types. For network documentation, it provides automated device discovery, interactive maps, and topology visualizations that create dynamic inventories and diagrams. It generates reports and dashboards that serve as living documentation, updating in real-time based on monitoring data.
Pros
- Automated network discovery and mapping for quick topology documentation
- Highly customizable interactive maps and reports that update dynamically
- Comprehensive sensor library provides detailed device inventories
Cons
- Primarily a monitoring tool, so documentation features feel secondary and less flexible for static diagramming
- Steep learning curve for setup and advanced configurations
- Pricing scales quickly with sensor count, making it expensive for large networks
Best For
Network administrators needing integrated monitoring with automated, real-time network topology and inventory documentation.
Pricing
Free edition for up to 100 sensors; paid plans start at $1,899/year for 500 sensors, scaling up to enterprise levels with on-premises or hosted options.
Conclusion
With a range of tools suited to diverse network needs, the top performers distinguish themselves through effective documentation. Leading is NetBox, an open-source IPAM and DCIM platform, celebrated for its detailed modeling of network infrastructure. Close behind are SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper, which excels at automatic discovery and customizable diagrams, and Device42, known for agentless dependency mapping and comprehensive infrastructure visuals. Each offers unique strengths, ensuring there’s a standout choice for nearly every requirement.
Explore NetBox to unlock flexible, open-source network documentation—whether starting fresh or upgrading existing systems, it delivers the structure needed to keep networks organized and manageable.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison